Yes, attacking a flotilla of civilian ships trying to deliver humanitarian aid is considered a war crime under international humanitarian law.
This is a specific application of the principles mentioned previously, particularly the principle of distinction. Here's why:
- Civilian Status: The ships and the people on board are, by definition, civilians and civilian objects. They are not taking part in hostilities. Their purpose is peaceful and humanitarian.
- Protection of Humanitarian Aid: International law, particularly the Geneva Conventions and their protocols, places a high degree of protection on humanitarian relief operations. Parties to a conflict have an obligation to allow and facilitate the rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian aid for civilians in need. Obstructing or attacking such aid can be a war crime.
- Loss of Protection: A civilian ship would only lose its protected status if it was being used to commit "acts harmful to the enemy," for example, if it were secretly being used for military purposes or was carrying weapons. If the sole purpose is to deliver aid, the protection remains.
In summary, the targeting of a humanitarian flotilla, its crew, or its passengers is a serious violation of the laws of armed conflict, which protect both civilians and the critical infrastructure and operations designed to help them.